Sydney is one of Australia’s busiest cities, and its fast-paced lifestyle leaves many families in need of help at home. Domestic work has become an essential part of life for households across the city.
These are everyday jobs like cleaning, cooking, caring for children, and supporting elderly family members. In 2025, domestic workers in Sydney are not just helpers. They are skilled individuals who make homes run smoothly and safely.
Many of these jobs now offer good pay, stable hours, and long-term employment. This post looks at the best domestic jobs in Sydney right now. Whether you are already living in Australia or planning to move, these roles are realistic ways to earn a living and build trust with families who need your support.
The demand is high, the work is steady, and in many cases, you can get started without needing years of formal education.
Best Domestic Jobs in Sydney, Australia
1. Housekeepers
Housekeepers are needed in nearly every part of Sydney. Their job is to keep the home clean and organized. This includes tasks like sweeping, mopping, laundry, washing dishes, changing bedsheets, and keeping the home looking neat.
In 2025, housekeepers in Sydney earn between AUD 28 and AUD 40 per hour depending on experience. Full-time housekeepers working for large families or busy professionals often make over AUD 55,000 per year. Those working for multiple clients in different homes may earn more if they manage their schedules well.
Families in suburbs like Mosman, Paddington, and Rose Bay are willing to pay top rates for experienced and trustworthy housekeepers. Some employers even offer extra hours for helping with errands, grocery shopping, or pet care.
2. Nannies and Babysitters
Sydney has many young families, and that means child care is always in demand. Nannies work full-time or part-time to help raise children. Their duties include feeding, bathing, playing, helping with homework, and sometimes picking up children from school.
Nannies in Sydney earn between AUD 30 and AUD 45 per hour. Full-time live-in nannies may earn up to AUD 70,000 per year when accommodation and food are included. Babysitters, who work evenings or weekends, typically earn AUD 25 to AUD 35 per hour.
Most families want nannies who are kind, patient, and have experience working with kids. Basic first aid and CPR training are often required, and some families prefer nannies who speak a second language.
3. Aged Care and Companionship Services
With an aging population, elderly care has become one of the most important domestic jobs in Sydney. Families are hiring in-home caregivers to help older adults with their daily routines. This includes dressing, preparing meals, taking walks, offering company, and managing medications.
Caregivers in Sydney earn between AUD 32 and AUD 50 per hour. Some live-in aged care workers earn up to AUD 65,000 annually, especially if they are available for overnight support.
While formal training in aged care is helpful, many families also hire people with strong references and a gentle, respectful attitude. This job can be emotionally demanding, but it is deeply rewarding for those who care about helping others live with dignity.
4. Family Cooks and Meal Preparers
Some families in Sydney prefer to have fresh, home-cooked meals rather than eating out or ordering takeaway. Domestic cooks are hired to prepare meals that suit the family’s taste, health needs, and daily schedule. The job includes grocery shopping, meal planning, cooking, and cleaning the kitchen.
Cooks working in homes can earn between AUD 30 and AUD 50 per hour. Some families hire part-time cooks to come in a few times a week, while others prefer full-time support.
You do not need to be a trained chef. If you know how to prepare tasty and healthy meals, and can follow instructions carefully, this job can be a great fit. Families appreciate cooks who can work independently, keep the kitchen clean, and respect dietary needs.
5. Domestic Cleaners
While housekeepers work regularly for the same family, domestic cleaners often work in multiple homes each week. They are usually hired for deep cleaning, spring cleaning, or one-time support before events or holidays.
Domestic cleaners in Sydney earn between AUD 30 and AUD 45 per hour. Those with a steady list of clients can earn over AUD 1,000 per week. Some cleaners work through agencies while others are self-employed.
This job requires strong attention to detail, time management, and reliability. Many cleaners build long-term relationships with their clients, leading to regular work and good referrals.
6. Live-in Domestic Helpers
Live-in roles are common in larger households where the employer wants someone available every day. These workers usually help with cleaning, light cooking, laundry, and child care. In return, they receive a room in the house, meals, and a salary.
Live-in domestic workers in Sydney earn between AUD 40,000 and AUD 60,000 per year. Since accommodation and food are covered, many workers are able to save most of their income.
Employers look for people who are honest, responsible, and respectful of household routines. While the hours can be long, live-in jobs are often more stable and suitable for workers who do not have housing of their own in Sydney.
7. Private Drivers and Family Chauffeurs
In busy households, a private driver is hired to take children to school, help family members with errands, or pick up visitors from the airport. This job requires a clean driving record, good knowledge of Sydney roads, and a reliable vehicle if not using the employer’s car.
Family drivers earn between AUD 32 and AUD 50 per hour. Some drivers are hired full-time, while others work part-time based on the family’s schedule.
This job suits people who are punctual, polite, and comfortable dealing with traffic and tight schedules. Being flexible with hours, including weekends or early mornings, is often necessary.
8. Pet Sitters and Dog Walkers
As more people adopt pets in Sydney, the need for trusted pet sitters and dog walkers has grown. These workers take care of pets while the family is away or too busy to provide daily walks and care.
Pet sitters can earn between AUD 25 and AUD 40 per hour. Dog walkers with several regular clients often make over AUD 1,200 per week. Some offer overnight stays at the client’s home or keep pets in their own homes.
This job does not require special training, but you must love animals, be dependable, and know how to handle pets safely. Good reviews and word-of-mouth can quickly help you grow your client base.
9. General Handymen and Home Support
Some families in Sydney look for someone who can help with small tasks around the house. This includes fixing small appliances, painting, lifting furniture, or helping with garden maintenance. These all fall under general domestic support.
Handymen earn between AUD 35 and AUD 60 per hour depending on their skills. Those who are multi-skilled and can handle basic electrical or plumbing tasks can earn even more.
This work suits people who are good with tools, practical, and willing to take on different jobs. Many homeowners want someone who can be called regularly for odd jobs and ongoing home care.
10. Household Assistants or Mother’s Helpers
In homes with very young children or new babies, some mothers prefer to have an assistant at home to help with anything that comes up. This includes cleaning bottles, folding clothes, running errands, or helping manage the household when both parents are working.
These roles are flexible and the tasks often change day by day. Assistants earn between AUD 28 and AUD 40 per hour. Many start as part-time workers and later move into full-time roles.
This is a great job for someone who is adaptable, organized, and helpful in general household routines. No special training is needed, but kindness, initiative, and consistency matter a lot.
Where to Find Domestic Job Openings in Sydney
If you are looking for domestic work in Sydney, there are several reliable ways to find job openings. Many employers now hire through online platforms that allow workers to create profiles, list their experience, and get reviews from past clients.
Some of the most commonly used job platforms include Airtasker, Jora, Gumtree, and Indeed Australia. These websites regularly list domestic roles including housekeepers, nannies, carers, and part-time cleaners. Others like Mable or Care.com are more focused on caregiving jobs and nanny services.
Local community noticeboards, Facebook groups, and WhatsApp groups for Sydney-based domestic workers can also be very useful. Families often prefer to hire someone recommended by word of mouth. If you already work with one client, a good reputation can help you find more work through referrals.
Private domestic agencies are also available across Sydney. These agencies match workers with families and often help with the paperwork, contracts, and job expectations. While some agencies take a service fee, they also offer stability and may provide long-term job placements.
Legal Requirements and Worker Protection
Before starting any domestic job in Sydney, it is important to understand your legal rights and responsibilities. Domestic workers in Australia are protected under the Fair Work Act. This means you have the right to a minimum wage, regular working hours, paid leave (if full-time), and a safe working environment.
As of 2025, the national minimum wage in Australia is over AUD 23 per hour. Many domestic roles pay well above this, especially when the job requires extra responsibility or experience. Employers must also follow tax and superannuation rules. Some families hire workers as employees, while others use a contractor model. It is important to know how you are being hired and whether you are registered correctly.
If you are on a visa, make sure it allows you to work legally. Student visa holders, for example, have weekly limits on how many hours they can work. Working without the right visa could affect your ability to stay in the country long term.
There are services available in Sydney that can help you check if your job is legal and safe. If something does not feel right, you can contact the Fair Work Ombudsman or migrant support groups for advice. You should never feel afraid to ask questions about your pay, breaks, or duties.
What Makes a Domestic Worker Stand Out in Sydney
In a competitive market like Sydney, standing out as a domestic worker can lead to better pay, more job offers, and long-term security. Here are some qualities that employers value most:
- Reliability. Turning up on time and doing your job without being reminded is one of the most important traits.
- Honesty. Employers trust you with their homes, families, and personal spaces. Being truthful builds lasting relationships.
- Good communication. Clear, respectful communication helps you understand tasks, schedules, and expectations.
- Attention to detail. Whether cleaning, cooking, or caring, doing your job properly the first time saves everyone time and stress.
- Flexibility. Many domestic roles involve doing different things each day. Being flexible helps families see you as a valuable part of the household.
While certificates and experience matter, personal qualities are often the reason a family chooses to keep a domestic worker for years. Taking your job seriously, even when it feels routine, will always put you ahead.
Conclusion
Domestic jobs in Sydney are more than just side work. In 2025, they have become full-time careers for many people, both locals and newcomers. These jobs offer good pay, flexible schedules, and the chance to build strong relationships with families.
Whether you enjoy cleaning, caring, cooking, or simply helping around the house, there is a domestic job in Sydney that fits your skills. Many of these roles do not require advanced education, but they do require trust, effort, and honesty. With these, you can find stable income and real appreciation for the work you do.